Looking to purchase a Cobra

[JPit]

No wonder the economy is in such trouble. Only the government could make it so difficult to purchase a car and get it registered…talk about slowing down commerce.
The last thing I want to do is get accused of fraud over registering a car. I talked to the NJ DMV today and might have been a little too forthcoming. I asked specifically if a car was titled and registered in another state as a 1965 cobra but is actually a kit car (I can’t help but be honest) could I just transfer that title. I was met with a resounding NO WAY. The car if approved would be titled the year the build was complete and if I could not prove that it would be titled the current year. As far as emissions go it would be the year of the engine. The DMV is sending me a full packet of the steps I will have to go through to get the car registered so I will keep everyone posted when I get it...3-5 days.
With far more responses about cars than I thought I would get ….DeCooney and MRMustang are correct. I have to completely evaluate my needs/desires and most import budget.
I do really like the lines of the FIA better so for now I think I will hold out for one. I still want to use the car as a weekend driver in the summer….a real grocery getter with occasional trips to the beach (2 hour drive and the need for that 5th gear).
I did set an upper budget of $45K for an ERA FIA, but now realize that was unrealistic once tax and shipping are factored in (which can easily push the price over $50k).
I will give my search for an FIA some time while keeping a close eye on the 427 market. I would rather take my time and find the right car at the right price than make an emotional purchase.

[YerDugliness]

Originally Posted by JPit

I did set an upper budget of $45K for an ERA FIA, but now realize that was unrealistic once tax and shipping are factored in (which can easily push the price over $50k).
I will give my search for an FIA some time while keeping a close eye on the 427 market. I would rather take my time and find the right car at the right price than make an emotional purchase.

That kind of budget is right in the ballpark for a Unique 289/FIA. Nothing wrong with the Unique product! Keep them in he crosshairs, too.

I agree with you, love the lean 'n' mean looks of a well built FIA.....nothing like the original!!!!

Cheers from Dugly

[decooney]

JPit,
It sounds like you are in the right track. We ALL have gone through these same questions at one point or another on that quest for the first Cobra. Some would agree you are better off for asking and researching up front vs. jumping in head first and asking questions later after you select your car. Absolutely - taking a little extra time like you are to figure things out a bit more can pay off HUGE later on down the road. One of the best and most memorable parts of doing this is the actual search and purchase of the first Cobra. And, when you do settle and pick the right car for you, it will even be that much sweeter knowing you did your homework first. Enjoy the ride getting there too. Good Luck.